NAICS 518210 vs 541511
This page compares NAICS 518210 (Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services) vs NAICS 541511 (Custom Computer Programming Services) to help you determine the correct industry classification code.
Side-by-Side Comparison Asset
| Dimension | NAICS 518210 — Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services | NAICS 541511 — Custom Computer Programming Services |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing computing infrastructure, data processing services, Web hosting services (except software publishing), and related services, including streaming support services (except streaming distribution services). Data processing establishments provide complete processing and specialized reports from data supplied by clients or provide automated data processing and data entry services. | This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in writing, modifying, testing, and supporting software to meet the needs of a particular customer. |
| SBA Size Standard | $40,000,000 | $34,000,000 |
| US Establishments (CBP) | 18,544 | 68,051 |
Decision Rule Guidelines
Select 518210 if your primary business focus aligns with Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services. Select 541511 if the establishment's core activities match the definition of Custom Computer Programming Services. Verify the revenue share of each activity if both apply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I report both NAICS 518210 and 541511 on a business tax return? ▾
No, the IRS requires declaring a single primary activity code (either 518210 or 541511) on Schedule C or Form 1120. You must audit your revenue share between these two classifications and select the code that represents the highest percentage of your receipts.
How do the SBA size standards differ between NAICS 518210 and 541511? ▾
NAICS 518210 has a standard of $40,000,000 while NAICS 541511 has a standard of $34,000,000. Ensure your rolling averages of annual receipts or employees do not exceed the specific code limit for your chosen classification.
Related Pages & Tools
- NAICS Code 518210 Directory — Official definition, SBA thresholds, and details.
- NAICS Code 541511 Directory — Official definition, SBA thresholds, and details.
- Find NAICS by Industry — Search classification directory.
Primary Ingestion Source
Data sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau NAICS 2022 Manual and SBA Small Business Size Regulations (13 CFR Part 121). Last verified on 2026-06-30.